Pilulae Imperiales
Imperial Pills

Tradition:

Western

Source / Author:

Fernelius

Herb Name Aloe Rhubarb Agaric Senna leaf Cinnamon Ginger Nutmeg Clove Indian Spikenard Mastic

Latin Aloe vera Rheum palmatum Fomitopsis officinalis Cassia angustifolia Cinnamonum zeylanicum Zingiber officinalis Myristica fragrans Eugenia caryophyllus Nardostachys jatamansi Pistacia lentiscus Amount 2 oz. 1 1⁄2 oz. 1 oz. ea. 3 drams 2 drams 1 dram ea.

Preparation:

Form pills with Syrup of Violets

Function:

Purges Bile and Phlegm, Purges Mixed Humors, strengthens the Stomach

Use:

1. purges excess, purges Phlegm, Bile and Mixed Humors
2. cleanses the Stomach, Bowels and Liver;
3. benefits the Stomach and Digestion;
4. also for Headache, Vertigo, Gout etc
5. A safe, general purge for occasional use

Dose:

2 scruples–1 1⁄2 drams
It can be taken for 5–10 days every change of season, or once per week.

Cautions:

None noted
Not to be used continuously. Best not used for more than 7–10 days without a break.

Modifications:

“It cleanses the body of mixed humours, and strengthens the stomach exceedingly, as also the bowels, liver, and Natural Spirits: it is good for cold natures, and cheers the Spirits”. (Culpeper)

These were called Imperial Pills “from the multiplicity of their faculties, and their benignity in acting”, and because they may safely be used by (almost) everyone.
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